Illimis Chenin Blanc 2015

Lucinda Heyns has worked primarily as a viticulturist at both Jordan and Mulderbosch locally plus has plenty of experience in California. She currently finds herself at the Institute for Grape and Wine Sciences but also makes wine under her own label called Illimis, Latin for “Clarity” and a reflection of her conviction that wine should be a window into a particular vineyard. Tasting notes and ratings for her current releases as follows:

Illimis Cinsault 2015
Price: R155
Grapes from a 43-year-old Darling vineyard and made using carbonic maceration. All manner of red berries plus candyfloss and a little rose geranium. The palate has a lovely lightness to it – pure fruit, fresh acidity and just about no tannic grip to speak of although the finish has a gently savoury quality to it. Not super- complex but so pretty and appealing. 11.7% abv.

#WinemagRating: 89/100.

Clear as day.

Illimis Chenin Blanc 2015
Wine Cellar price: R215

Grapes from Elgin. Fermented and matured for eight months in old oak. Subtle notes of pear, yellow apple, peach and apricot plus a hint of spice. Great fruit concentration and bright acidity – tightly knit with a saline finish.

#WinemagRating: 91/100.